Monday, April 18, 2011

5 Best U.S. Farmers' Markets

Farmers' markets are more than just a place to purchase delicious local produce, their impact on physical, environmental, and community health is worth celebrating! It's also a great way to get out and get some fresh air, meet some locals, and contribute to the local economy on your next vacation. Here, our list of five of the best farmers' markets in the U.S., plus tasty treats that are not to missed:

1. Portland Farmers' Market, Portland, OR: Dubbed as "Your Sustainable City", it makes sense that Portland would play host to one of the U.S.'s best farmers' markets. This Saturday market, located in downtown Portland on the Portland State University campus, sees 22,000 shoppers each week. With over 250 vendors from local farms, bakeries, dairy farms, nurseries and fisheries, the vast variety ensures you'll be able find something to please your palate.

Don't Miss: Fresh-caught crab.

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Union Square Greenmarket, bustling with shoppers.

2. Union Square Greenmarket, New York, NY- Although New York City hosts forty-four farmers' markets, the Union Square Greenmarket has become the city’s flagship farmers' market. Located in Manhattan and hosting 250,000 boisterous, bustling New Yorkers each week, this market is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Up to 140 vendors make their way to the city to sell chefs, locals, and visitors apples (it's not called the Big Apple for nothing), leafy greens, rooftop honey, and many more local delights.

Don't Miss: A shot of wheatgrass juice or a button of goat cheese.

Shoppers enjoying the food and views at Ferry Plaza Farmers Market.

3. Ferry Plaza Farmers' Market, San Francisco, CA- Located against the backdrop of San Francisco's Ferry Terminal, this farmers' market features fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood and a view of the Bay Bridge. This market is widely acclaimed for both the quality and diversity of its fresh farm products, and artisan and prepared foods. On any day, especially Saturdays- though the market is also open Tuesdays and Thursdays- some of San Francisco’s best known chefs and most famous farmers can be seen at the market, along with nearly 25,000 shoppers.

Don't Miss: The locally roasted coffee and a variety of Asian snacks

The Dane County Farmers Market, directly in front of Madison's capitol building.

4. Dane County Farmers' Market, Madison, WI- Created in 1972 as a link between Madison's urban and rural offerings, the Dane County Farmers Market is held in Capitol Square. This is the largest producer-only farmers’ market in the country, where all items are produced locally by the vendor behind the table. Open Saturday and Wednesday throughout the summer, and Saturdays only throughout the rest of the year- this market is tradition in Madison. You’ll find the season’s best bounty of vegetables, flowers, and specialty products from approximately 300 vendors throughout the year.

Don't Miss: The Winter Market Breakfast for only $7 – and the cheesy bread

5. Barton Creek Farmers' Market, Austin, TX- Formerly known as the Sunset Valley Farmers' Market, this market offers an abundance of organic and sustainable produce in the city that founded Whole Foods and Central Market. Open every Saturday, rain or shine, this market has beautiful views of the city, along with live music, kids entertainment, specialty events, festivals, a cafe for breakfast or lunch, and a great community vibe.

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People enjoy the shopping and entertainment at Barton Creek Farmers' Market

No matter which of these cities you're in, each of these farmers' markets offer far more than just local produce. At these big markets, you may also find cooking classes, festivals, live music, and more! Such extras make them hot spots for the both locals and visitors who want a taste of the local scene. Have you visited any of these cities and/or markets? If not, will you make time to check out the farmers' market next time you visit?